Car Hire in Podgorica

A vacation in Montenegro often begins in Podgorica, where the country's largest airport is located. To comfortably travel from the capital to the Adriatic coast or the Durmitor mountain ranges, use the car rental service in Podgorica.

Advantages of Car Rental with Localrent

At Localrent, we have gathered reliable rental companies in Podgorica. You don't need to compare prices and terms of each company to decide where to rent a car. Simply book a suitable car on our website.

Benefits of booking a car through Localrent:

1. Honest prices. No hidden fees or taxes. You pay exactly the amount specified in the booking voucher.
2. Easy car search. Convenient filters help you select cars that meet your specific needs.
3. Support service. We stay in touch throughout your booking and will assist in any unexpected situation.
4. Low deposits. The average deposit for car rental in Montenegro is €200–300, but some cars can be rented without a deposit.
5. Wide selection. Localrent offers everything: budget compact cars, mid-range vehicles, crossovers, minivans, convertibles, and luxury cars are all available for rent.

Don’t waste precious time searching for a rental car in Podgorica — book it in just a few minutes on Localrent.

Requirements for Car Rental in Podgorica

Each car has its own requirements for drivers, listed in its description. You can rent a car in Podgorica if you are at least 18 years old and have held a license for at least one year. The widest selection is available to drivers over 23 with at least 3 years of experience.

What you need to rent a car in Podgorica:

• Passport
• Valid driver’s license

In most cases, an international driving permit is not required. If your license is valid only in the issuing country, an IDP will be necessary.

Driving Features in Podgorica

Podgorica follows standard European traffic rules and signage. However, there are some local peculiarities:

• The city center has many narrow streets, especially in the historic districts of Drač and Stara Varoš, where two cars can hardly pass each other.
• Sidewalks in these areas are narrow or non-existent, so pedestrians often walk on the road — be especially careful.
• Main traffic jams occur on bridges over the Morača River — the Blažo Jovanović and Millennium Bridges — as well as on city entry and exit roads from 8:00–9:00 and 16:00–18:00.
• Buses may stop unexpectedly — keep a safe distance.
• Low or daytime running lights must be on at all times.

Tourists usually adapt quickly to driving in and around Podgorica. We recommend reducing speed at dusk and night, as some streets are poorly lit.

Fuel Stations in Podgorica

Most gas stations in the city operate 24/7, especially along main roads such as Vojislavljevića Street, Josipa Broza Tita Street, and Bulevar Svetog Petra Cetinjskog. Smaller stations often close at night.

Charging stations are not very common — if you rent a hybrid or electric car, charge it in advance and avoid letting the battery drop below one-third.

Large stations have mini-markets with useful items, drinks, snacks, and restrooms.

Prepayment is usually not required — refuel first, then pay at the counter. At large stations, card payments are accepted; small ones may only take cash.

If you're planning a trip to the mountains, such as Žabljak or Kolašin, fill up in advance — there are few stations on the highways.

Parking in Podgorica

In the city center, such as around Independence Square and along Bulevar Svetog Petra Cetinjskog, most parking spots are paid. Many malls, restaurants, hotels, and other venues offer free parking for extended periods or 2–3 hours.

You can pay for parking:

• At parking meters — they accept coins and sometimes cards; place the receipt under your windshield.
• Via the Parking Servis mobile app
• By SMS, but only with a Montenegrin SIM card

Yellow markings or a sign saying “Zabranjeno parkiranje” indicate no parking. Parking is also prohibited near public transport stops, pedestrian crossings, and driveway entrances. If there are no prohibitive signs or paid parking notices, you can park for free. Locals may park in unauthorized spots, but tourists are better off not doing so.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Car in Podgorica

To book a rental car in Podgorica, follow these steps:

1. Enter your rental dates and adjust the search using the “Filters” section.
2. Select a car, open its page, and review its specs, driver requirements, mileage limits, and insurance terms.
3. Ensure the payment and deposit methods suit you.
4. Enter your pick-up location and time.
5. Provide driver details and contact information.
6. Pay a deposit (15–20%). A voucher will be sent to your email — save it on your phone or print it.

To pick up the car, you’ll need to sign a rental agreement. We recommend inspecting the vehicle on-site, recording a video, and marking any existing damage on the inspection sheet.

What to See in Podgorica

With a car, you can visit interesting spots in Podgorica and nearby. Here are the places we recommend:

1. Millennium Bridge: A modern city symbol crossing the Morača River. Offers panoramic views of the city and mountains. Beautifully lit at night. Nearby pedestrian area and park, with paid parking available.
2. Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ: The main Orthodox church of Montenegro with unique architecture and murals. Combines elements from key Montenegrin churches. For example, the towers resemble those of the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in Kotor. Parking is free but limited.
3. Morača River Canyon: A picturesque canyon stretching from Podgorica toward Kolašin. Enjoy the views in the village of Bioče, 15 km from Podgorica.
4. Dajbabe Monastery: A 19th-century monastery 5 km from the city center. Its architecture is unique — it is carved into a mountain slope with a network of underground passages and a spring.
5. Royal Palace: A historic 19th-century building once owned by the Petrović-Njegoš royal family. Now houses a cultural center with exhibitions and events. Architecture blends neoclassicism and Montenegrin traditions.

You can easily reach these sights with a compact car or city sedan. For more space, choose a crossover; a minivan is ideal for a large group.

Where to Pick Up a Rental Car in Podgorica

You can pick up your reserved car:

1. At Podgorica Airport (TGD)
2. At a city rental office
3. By delivery to a specified address

Pickup options depend on the specific car — check available options on the car’s page when booking.

Tips for Renting a Car in Podgorica

Car rental in Podgorica is a convenient way to explore Montenegro’s capital and surroundings.

Choose a car based on your planned routes

If you're staying within the city, rent a compact car like a Fiat 500 or Toyota Yaris — they’re perfect for narrow streets and parking. For coastal or mountain trips, choose a crossover or mid-size car. These handle winding roads better and offer more comfort for long journeys.

Keep change on hand

Coins of €0.50–1 will come in handy for parking meters or attendants who “reserve” free spots for a couple of euros. While unofficial, it can save time during rush hour.

Add Extended Insurance to your booking

Gravel may fly up from oncoming cars on narrow mountain roads. Extended insurance covers damage above the deductible, including to glass. On Localrent, you’ll find cars with this insurance already included in the rental price.

FAQ about Car Rental in Montenegro